Possession of Cocaine

Possession of Cocaine Charges in Tampa

Cocaine is a Schedule II controlled substance in the state of Florida. This is a rather severe rating in that the Florida legislature (and the federal government) believe that cocaine possession and usage has the potential to cause serious harm to both the accused and others. As such, the laws governing cocaine possession in Florida are rather harsh, and any accused individual must be prepared for what to expect.

Defense attorney Tampa, Marc A. Joseph, P.A. truly recognizes the seriousness of a cocaine possession charge in Florida. Tampa prosecutors are always tough when it comes to drug possession charges, but with the help of a qualified attorney like Mr. Joseph, an accused individual may be able to resolve a cocaine possession charge without being required to serve jail time or pay hefty fines. However, because all cases are based on a unique set of facts and circumstances, it is crucial that you have a general understanding of Florida cocaine possession laws and related penalties, as described below.

Possession of Cocaine in Florida & Why You Need a Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney

Under Florida law, if an individual knowingly possesses an amount of cocaine that is less than 28 grams, he or she may be charged and convicted of simple cocaine possession. This criminal charge is considered a third degree felony, and conviction carries with it a maximum jail sentence of 5 years, and a fine up to $5,000. Additionally, any convicted individuals will lose their Florida driver’s license for a period of two years. These are extremely serious consequences that could result for simply possessing trace amounts of cocaine. With the right attorney, however, you may be able to limit the severity of some penalties.

If an individual possesses 28 grams or more of cocaine, not only does the individual face a possession charge, but he or she may also face drug trafficking charges which could result in serious jail time ranging from 30 years to life, along with fines ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. The reason why the penalties for possessing more than 28 grams of cocaine are so unforgiving is because such a large amount of cocaine suggests that the cocaine is not simply for personal use, but that the cocaine is to be trafficked or sold.

While the penalties discussed above can be very frightening for an accused individual, it is important to remember that a qualified and dedicated criminal defense attorney can help you fight a cocaine possession charge. Depending on the facts of your case, it may be possible to have your cocaine possession charge dismissed if there are grounds to do so. If your case cannot be dismissed, your attorney may be able to negotiate with the charging prosecutor to reach a result that is fair given the circumstances surrounding your cocaine possession charge.

Contact Criminal Defense Attorney Marc A. Joseph, P.A. Today for a Free Consultation!

Possessing cocaine in the state of Florida can result in life-changing consequences. While Tampa prosecutors are tough on convicted individuals, with the help of a seasoned defense attorney, you are helping your chances of reaching a fair result. In order to benefit from superior legal representation, you must seek the advice of a qualified attorney as soon as possible following arrest.

Your constitutional rights are always at risk, and an attorney can help to protect those rights throughout the resolution of your criminal matter. With more than 15 years of experience, Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney Marc A. Joseph, P.A. has the skill and resources to ensure that you are receiving well-deserved legal representation. Mr. Joseph strives to protect his clients’ rights and interests, as he understands just how important it is to resolve your criminal matter whether it is a cocaine charge or a possession of marijuana charge, as quickly as possible.

If you would like to discuss a criminal matter with Marc A. Joseph, P.A., contact our office today by calling (813) 234-6374 to schedule your free consultation. Mr. Joseph is available any time, day or night, to assist you in whatever way he can.

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